A local aristocrat has escaped a speeding fine after his car was caught travelling at 83mph in a 70mph zone.

Lord Gisborough, right, was, however, fined £60 for failing to provide details of the driver following the offence.

His speeding vehicle was caught on camera on September 3 last year in Stockton. In a letter to Teesside Magistrates Court, the former magistrate, who lives at Gisborough Hall, claimed not to be the driver at the time.

He believed it was his wife, Lady Gisborough, who was driving but felt it "inappropriate" for her to take the blame. He pleaded guilty to both offences.

District Judge Martin Walker withdrew the speeding offence but imposed the fine and three penalty points for failing to give the driver's details.